Stepping onto the world stage in 2000, the BMW X5 heralded a new era for luxury vehicles, defining what it meant to be an SUV. Fast forward more than two decades and the X5 continues to leave an indelible mark on the automotive industry, ceaselessly pushing boundaries and setting new standards.
As it traverses its fourth generation, the X5 showcases a profound midcycle refresh, reinforcing its prestige as a leader in the SUV realm. This renewed X5 brings elevated interior technology, heightened safety mechanisms, and an impressive lineup of powertrains, inclusive of the improved xDrive50e plug-in hybrid.
The testament to the X5's triumph lies in BMW's impressive Q1 2023 sales in the U.S., with an astounding 82,466 vehicles sold, marking an 11.9 percent growth from Q1 2022. As further proof of its remarkable success, BMW topped the Consumer Reports' 2023 Auto Brand Report Card Rankings, underlining the X5's contribution to the brand's stellar reputation and appeal. In fact, of the 20+ models that currently occupy the mid-size luxury segment, the X5 ranked second in terms of sales in 2022 beaten only by the Lexus RX, which took the top spot.
Positioned strategically between BMW's X3 and X7, the X5 holds its own against the formidable rival in the midsize luxury SUV arena — Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class. The rivalry between the Munich and Stuttgart heavyweights is legendary, dating back to the late '90s. Both vehicles stand as paragons of unparalleled comfort, innovative technology, and fluid performance, offering an array of options from efficient plug-in hybrids to high-octane powerhouses.
The Artful Evolution: BMW X5's Resilient Design Charm
The refreshed X5 wears its Bavarian heart on its sleeve, and with every curve and line, it shows us that change can be beautiful. The iconic kidney grille has been given a new lease on life, flanked by sharp, piercing headlights. The front bumper now sports new air intakes, seemingly inspired by a creature of the wild—elegant yet fierce. This is a vehicle that's not afraid to bare its fangs.
At the back, the tale of transformation continues. The taillights now incorporate fiber-optic elements, beaming with a contemporary appeal. The result? The BMW X5 retains its classic allure while embracing the nuances of modern design. For those with a penchant for the sporty aesthetic, the M Sport Package is there to satisfy, introducing an extra layer of athletic charisma.
In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE appears to play it safe with its design evolution. Apart from minor tweaks to the head and taillights and slight alterations to the grille and air intakes, it looks pretty much like its 2023 predecessor. Mercedes-Benz does offer an AMG Line package for a dash of aggression, but it seems somewhat underwhelming when compared to BMW's offerings.
While design is very subjective, you can't deny that in this artistic dance of design evolution, it's clear that the BMW X5 leads, effortlessly coupling timeless elegance with a modern, edgy twist. It's this daring approach to design that reaffirms the X5's dominance in the mid-size luxury SUV segment.
Harnessing The Horsepower: The 2024 BMW X5’s Unrivaled Performance
For the 2024 BMW X5, power isn't just a number, but an experience brought to life in every drive. With an exhilarating upgrade in performance across its lineup, the X5 emphasizes that it isn’t merely in the game but also leading it.
The X5’s entry-level offering, fueled by the B58 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, boasts a robust 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. Add in a mild-hybrid system that momentarily amps up the torque to 398 pound-feet, and you have an SUV that thrills with its power delivery, setting it a class apart from competitors.
Contrast this with Mercedes-Benz's GLE 350, where their entry-level model, armed with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, produces 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. While respectable, it fails to rival the base X5’s offerings. A fairer comparison is the GLE 450, providing 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, which somewhat matches the performance of the X5 40i variants.
In the world of plug-in hybrids, the X5 xDrive50e is a marvel of modern engineering. It delivers a potent combined output of 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque and impresses further with a 40-mile range on electric power alone. Mercedes introduces the GLE 400e in 2024 as their counter, but with a combined 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, it falls short of the X5's prowess.
The top-of-the-line non-M/AMG models from BMW and Mercedes, the M60i and GLE 580 respectively, each offer thrilling performance courtesy of their twin-turbocharged V-8 engines. But with the M60i delivering 523 horsepower compared to the GLE 580s 510 horsepower, the BMW X5 clearly has the edge.
However, when it comes to towing capacity, the GLE scores a point with a robust rating of 7,700 pounds, surpassing the X5's 7,200 pounds. Yet, in the grand scheme of performance, the BMW X5 still stands tall as an unrivaled powerhouse.
Inside The 2024 BMW X5: A Masterclass In Luxury And Technology
Amidst the ever-evolving landscape of luxury SUVs, the 2024 BMW X5 sets a precedent for interior refinement. A symphony of design and technology, the X5's cabin epitomizes how traditional luxury can coexist with advanced tech without feeling incongruous or overwhelming.
One of the star features of the X5's facelift is the new BMW Curved Display, a technological marvel that dominates the dashboard. It comprises a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display, both housed under a sophisticated glass surface.
A treasure trove awaits tech aficionados with the integration of the BMW iDrive 8 Operating System, complete with a revised BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. Add the new Highway Assistant to the mix, which allows hands-free cruising at up to 85 mph, and you have an SUV that brings the future to your fingertips.
Not wanting to sacrifice style for substance, the X5 fuses modern technology with timeless luxury. Chrome and glass controls coexist harmoniously with plush leather and rich wood accents. Subtle touches like the faux leather-trimmed dashboard and seats, updated switchgear, and optional glass controls only further enhance the cabin's posh ambiance.
Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz has been decidedly more conservative with updates to the GLE's interior. Subtle changes include new color schemes, a revamped steering wheel with touch sensors, and some Maybach-inspired chrome finishes. While the second-generation MBUX software and wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are notable updates, they fall short in comparison to the X5's tech revolution.
The BMW X5's cabin not only offers a more visually sumptuous environment but, drawing from the precedents set by pre-facelifted models, it also holds an advantage in terms of perceived quality. The 2024 BMW X5, thus, redefines what it means to luxuriate in a mid-size luxury SUV.
Weighing the Cost: 2024 BMW X5 vs. The Competition
Elevating its stakes in the luxury SUV segment, the 2024 BMW X5 presents impressive upgrades that are certainly reflected in its price tag. Starting at $65,200, the entry-level sDrive40i is a step up in cost. For those who value all-wheel drive, the xDrive40i becomes a natural choice, albeit at an increased cost of $67,500. If it's power combined with the efficiency you're after, the robust yet eco-friendly xDrive50e stands tall at a considerable $72,500.
For enthusiasts with deep pockets and a desire for a fiery ride, the M60i xDrive, boasting a vibrant V8, awaits with a considerable price tag of $89,300. The privilege of power, however, comes at a cost. At this point, Mercedes-Benz has yet to disclose the pricing for the updated 2024 GLE. In the 2023 lineup, pricing on the GLE ranged from $57,700 to $83,850, hinting that the 2024 model could potentially undercut the X5 by a few thousand dollars, although confirmation is still pending.
It is clear, though, that BMW seems to be pulling ahead in this race. With its refreshed modern aesthetic appeal, opulent and tech-packed interiors, and range of powerful engines, the 2024 BMW X5 could potentially have an edge over the Mercedes GLE - at least at this early stage. Ultimately, the final verdict will come from those who drive them.